Flexible prosthetic cover

ABSTRACT

A prosthetic cover for a prosthetic support element can include a substantially cylindrical hollow body with a first end and a second end and sized to fit around a support element of a prosthesis. A first flexible end seal and a second flexible end seal can each attach with the substantially cylindrical hollow body at the first and second ends, respectively, and connect the hollow body with the support element of the prosthesis by deforming about the support element when the prosthetic cover is installed around the support element.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.17/050,629, filed on Oct. 26, 2020, which is a National Stage Entry ofPCT/US2019/028964, filed on Apr. 24, 2019, which claims the benefitunder 35 U.S.C. 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/663,094,filed on Apr. 26, 2018, the whole disclosure of which is incorporated byreference herein.

BACKGROUND

Typical prostheses include a socket, a contact element such as anartificial foot, blade, or pod, and a structural frame optionallyincluding joints and shock absorptive elements connecting the two. Mostdesigns can be categorized as exoskeletal or endoskeletal prostheses. Inan exoskeletal prosthesis, support is derived from an external frameoften approximating the shape of a limb. These designs can be verystrong and cosmetically approximate a lost limb, but are also heavierand more limited in terms of adjustability, replacement, and repair.Endoskeletal prosthesis derive support from an internal frame that doesnot necessarily approximate natural physiology, and thus are typicallylightweight and simpler to modify, adjust, and repair. However, thestructural features of endoskeletal prosthesis can snag on skin orclothing and are often visually apparent even when concealed byclothing. Commercially available coverings for endoskeletal prosthesescan completely obviate the original cost, weight, and adjustabilityadvantages of the chosen prosthetic design. Thus, a present need existsfor improved prosthetic coverings that can be custom fitted, visuallyappealing, highly dynamic/functional, lightweight, economical, andreadily applied to a wide variety of prostheses

BRIEF SUMMARY

The following presents a simplified summary of some embodiments of theinvention in order to provide a basic understanding of the invention.This summary is not an extensive overview of the invention. It is notintended to identify key/critical elements of the invention or todelineate the scope of the invention. Its sole purpose is to presentsome embodiments of the invention in a simplified form as a prelude tothe more detailed description that is presented later.

In accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, aflexible prosthetic cover is disclosed. The flexible prosthetic coverincludes a substantially cylindrical hollow body with two ends that issized to fit around a support element of a prosthesis. The prostheticcover includes two flexible end seals that connect with the hollow bodyat each end and connect the body with the underlying support element.The connection is typically fluid-tight, or at least resistant to liquidinfiltration. Each end seal is formed of a flexible and elasticmaterial, such as silicone, that can deform to allow insertion of theload-bearing element through the prosthetic cover and end seals and tosecurely attach the prosthetic cover at any desired position along theload-bearing element.

For a fuller understanding of the nature and advantages of the presentinvention, reference should be made to the ensuing detailed descriptionand accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an assembly of a flexibleprosthetic cover attached with a prosthetic structural pylon.

FIG. 2 is an exploded side elevation view showing the flexibleprosthetic cover of FIG. 1 .

FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating the angular and torsionalflexibility of the flexible prosthetic cover of FIGS. 1-2 attached withthe prosthetic structural pylon.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a second embodiment of an assemblyof a flexible prosthetic cover attached with a prosthetic structuralpylon.

FIG. 5 is an exploded side elevation view showing the flexibleprosthetic cover of FIG. 4 .

FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a third embodiment of an assemblyof a flexible prosthetic cover attached with a prosthetic structuralpylon, a socket, and a foot.

FIG. 7 is an exploded side elevation view showing the flexibleprosthetic cover of FIG. 6 .

FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing a fourth embodiment of an assemblyof a flexible prosthetic cover including pocket enclosure.

FIG. 9 is a side elevation view showing a fifth embodiment of anassembly of a flexible prosthetic cover.

FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view showing the assembly of theflexible prosthetic cover of FIG. 9 .

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following description, various embodiments of the presentinvention will be described. For purposes of explanation, specificconfigurations and details are set forth in order to provide a thoroughunderstanding of the embodiments. However, it will also be apparent toone skilled in the art that the present invention may be practicedwithout the specific details. Furthermore, well-known features may beomitted or simplified in order not to obscure the embodiment beingdescribed.

Referring now to the drawings, in which like reference numeralsrepresent like parts throughout the several views, FIG. 1 shows anassembly 100 of a flexible prosthetic cover 104 attached with aprosthetic structural element 102, such as a structural pylon, inaccordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.Although the structural element 102 is represented as a cylindricalpylon throughout this disclosure, it will be understood that theprosthetic covers described can readily fit around and protect manyforms of structural elements with widely varying degrees of complexity.

The prosthetic cover 104 includes a flexible, substantially cylindricalhollow body 106. This hollow body 106 can have a variety of specificshapes, including a basic cylindrical shape, a narrowing, hour-glassshape to any suitable degree (as shown), or more complex shapes. Thehollow body 106 is sized to accommodate the structural element 102therein. Each end of the hollow body 106 is capped with first and secondflexible end seals 108, 110. In some embodiments, the end seals 108, 110form a liquid-tight seal with the hollow body 106, and may also providea liquid-tight seal with support element 102 when the protective cover104 is installed. The end seals can include any suitably strong andflexible material, such as but not limited to silicone and otherflexible polymers. In some embodiments, the end seals can be shaped toaccommodate flexure, e.g., with a curved or wavy cross section. In somecases, the end seal can form a seal against a variety of arbitraryshapes, including the structural element or pylon, a foot or similarattachment, a socket, or other component that the end seal contacts.

The end seals 108, 110 can be secured to the protective cover by way of,e.g., locking bands or other suitable retainers 112, 114 that bias theend seals 108, 110 against the hollow body 106. The position of theprosthetic cover 104 along the structural element 102 can be secured byway of, e.g. clamps 116, 118 (e.g. locking collars or tube clamps) thatcan removably attach with the structural element 102 and prevent thecover 104 from sliding thereon. FIG. 2 is an exploded side elevationview showing the prosthetic cover 104 of FIG. 1 , and betterillustrating the individual components thereof. According to someembodiments, the end seals 108, 110 may form a secure attachment withthe hollow body 106 without the inclusion of the locking bands.Similarly, in some embodiments the claims 116, 118 may also be optional,i.e. with the end seals 108, 110 being sufficiently tight or otherwiseconnected or adhered to the pylon 102. The end seals 108, 110 arepreferably removably connected with the pylon 102 when assembled.

The prosthetic cover 104 of FIGS. 1-2 is formed in a roughlysymmetrical, hourglass shape that can mimic the natural shape of a limbfrom beneath clothing, or can be aesthetically pleasing if exposed. Theform of the cover 104 is also suitable for providing protection from anyotherwise exposed edges or components of the structural element 102 wheninstalled, i.e. for preventing snags on clothing or preventing injuriesto the skin of the opposite sound limb.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating the angular and torsionalflexibility of the flexible prosthetic cover 104 of FIGS. 1-2 attachedwith the prosthetic structural pylon 102, in accordance with at leastone embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the prosthetic cover104 can move extensively relative to the pylon 102 while installedthereon due to the flexibility and shape of the end seals 108, 110. Forexample, when the pylon 102 is tilted relative to the cover 104, the endseals 108, 110 can deform without unsealing from the pylon, allowing thepylon centerline 132 and cover centerline 130 to diverge. The elasticityof the end seals 108, 110 will tend to bring the cover 104 back tocenter when not under load. Similarly, the elasticity of the end seals108, 110 will allow the cover to partially rotate around the pylon 102without releasing the pylon, or to move a small distance up and downalong the pylon. The cover 104 can therefore tilt, translate, or rotateelastically around the pylon 102, allowing the cover to be readily movedout of the way when work is done on the underlying prosthesis, whileadjusting clothing or shoes around the prosthesis, while walking,bending, or turning, or any other task which might be obstructed by amore rigid, conventional prosthetic cover.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a second embodiment of an assembly200 of a similar flexible prosthetic cover 204 attached with aprosthetic structural pylon 202, in accordance with at least oneembodiment of the present disclosure. This second example of aprosthetic cover 204 illustrates a narrower, low-profile shape of thehollow body 206 when compared to the hollow body 106 of the prostheticcover 104 shown in FIGS. 1-3 .

The hollow body 206 can also have a variety of specific shapes,including a basic cylindrical shape, a narrowing, hour-glass shape toany suitable degree (as shown), or more complex shapes. The hollow body206 is sized to accommodate the structural element 202 therein. Each endof the hollow body 206 is capped with first and second flexible endseals 208, 210. In some embodiments, the end seals 208, 210 form aliquid-tight seal with the hollow body 206, and may also provide aliquid-tight seal with support element 202 when the protective cover 204is installed. The end seals can include any suitably strong and flexiblematerial, such as but not limited to silicone and other flexiblepolymers. In some embodiments, the end seals can be shaped toaccommodate flexure, e.g., with a curved or wavy cross section.

The end seals 208, 210 can be secured to the protective cover by way of,e.g., locking bands or other suitable retainers 212, 214 that bias theend seals 208, 210 against the hollow body 206. The position of theprosthetic cover 204 along the structural element 202 can be secured byway of, e.g. clamps 216, 218 that can removably attach with thestructural element 202 and prevent the cover 204 from sliding thereon.FIG. 5 is an exploded side elevation view showing the prosthetic cover204 of FIG. 4 , and better illustrating the individual componentsthereof.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a third embodiment of an assembly300 of a flexible prosthetic cover 304 attached with a prostheticstructural pylon 302 and a socket 320, in accordance with at least oneembodiment of the present disclosure. This third example of a flexibleprosthetic cover 304 includes a variable-length hollow body 306 that canbe extended or contracted to cover an internal structural element 302 ofany suitable length.

Prosthetic cover 304 includes similar features to those of covers 104,204 described above, including a hollow body 306 sized to accommodatethe structural element 302 therein, capped with first and secondflexible end seals 308, 310. In some embodiments, the end seals 308, 310form a liquid-tight seal with the hollow body 306, and may also providea liquid-tight seal with support element 302 when the protective cover304 is installed. The end seals can include any suitably strong andflexible material, such as but not limited to silicone and otherflexible polymers. In some embodiments, the end seals can be shaped toaccommodate flexure, e.g., with a curved or wavy cross section.

The end seals 308, 310 can be secured to the protective cover 304 by wayof locking bands or other suitable retainers 312, 314 that bias the endseals 308, 310 against the hollow body 306. The position of theprosthetic cover 304 along the structural element 302 can be secured byway of, e.g. clamps 316, 318 that can removably attach with thestructural element 302 and prevent the cover 304 from sliding thereon.

In accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure,prosthetic cover 304 has a multi-part hollow body 306 formed of at leasttwo portions, shown here as an upper body portion 322 and a lower bodyportion 324 that are coupled together by way of a sliding fit andoptionally a third locking band or retainer 326. The sliding fit betweenthe upper and lower body portions 322, 324 of the hollow body allow auser to change the length of the hollow body 306 by sliding the coupledupper and lower body portions together or apart. In some embodiments,one or both of the upper and lower body portions 322, 324 can include agasket, O-ring, or similar feature where they engage with each other toseal the portions together and/or prevent liquid entry. Alternatively,an O-ring, band, or similar structure can be included with or formed tothe third locking band or retainer 326. In some embodiments, a shapedsurface 328 can be formed into one or more of the portions of amulti-part hollow body 306 for aesthetic purposes, to provide a grippingsurface, or to enhance the structural properties thereof. For example,the shaped surface 328 can include a ribbed or wavy shape that permitslimited longitudinal deformation. FIG. 7 is an exploded side elevationview showing the prosthetic cover 304 of FIG. 6 , and betterillustrating the individual components thereof.

FIG. 8 is a fourth example of an assembly 400 of a flexible prostheticcover 404 attached with a prosthetic structural element 402, such as astructural pylon, in accordance with at least one embodiment of thepresent disclosure, and similar to the embodiments shown above withreference to FIGS. 1-7 . The prosthetic cover 404 similarly includes aflexible, substantially cylindrical hollow body 406 sized to accommodatethe structural element 402 therein. Each end of the hollow body 406 iscapped with first and second flexible end seals 408, 410, as well asretaining clamps 416, 418 and optional retainers 412, 414.

In accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure,flexible prosthetic cover 404 can further include a pocket enclosure434, which can be configured as a trap-door pocket for discreetlycontaining items. For example, in some embodiments, the pocket enclosure434 is configured for containing items such as insulin or othermedication, for containing credit cards, car keys, or other small items,or the like. In some embodiments, the pocket enclosure 434 can alsoinclude retention elements (not shown) for assisting in the securementand retention of small items, such as elastic straps, pockets, or thelike. The pocket enclosure 434 is preferably constructed as a pocketwithin the mold (i.e. injection mold) that forms the hollow body 406,thus preserving the water-tight sealed compartment formed by the hollowbody around the pylon 402 when the cover 404 is assembled. The pocketenclosure 434 can further include an external closure or trap door 436,with a hinge element 438 enabling the pocket enclosure to close,producing a discretely smooth outer surface and protecting items storedwithin. In some embodiments, the pocket enclosure 434 is also configuredto seal, e.g. by way of a gasket or otherwise sealed closure, to definean independently watertight, sealed enclosure.

The prosthetic covers described herein can be used in a universal,symmetrical prosthetic covering system suitable for almost every type ofamputee and capable of covering most types of lower extremity prosthesescurrently available. Such prosthetic covers can be readily applied inthe clinic to most prostheses upon delivery of new prostheses and withminimal adjustment. At least some embodiments are suitable forapplication to endoskeletal prostheses and for covering and protectcomponents between the foot and the socket. Unlike most conventionalprosthetic covers, the embodiments herein described are specificallydesigned to cover the typically exposed componentry of modern lowerextremity endoskeletal prostheses and improve the appearance of today'shigh-tech prostheses.

FIG. 9 is a fourth example of an assembly 500 of a flexible prostheticcover 504 attached with a prosthetic structural element 502, such as astructural pylon, in accordance with at least one embodiment of thepresent disclosure, and similar to the embodiments shown above withreference to FIGS. 1-8 . The prosthetic cover 504 similarly includes aflexible, substantially cylindrical hollow body 506 sized to accommodatethe structural element 502 therein. Each end of the hollow body 506 iscapped with first and second flexible end seals 508, 510. In contrastwith the end seals 108, 110 shown in FIG. 1 , each of the end seals 508,510 of flexible prosthetic cover 504 can include a two-part assembly ofan end cap 540, 542 that connects to and partially encloses a sealingring 544, 546. The hollow body 506 shown is a partial hourglass shape,but it will be understood that a variety of specific prosthetic covershapes can be used.

The assembly of end caps 540, 542 and sealing rings 544, 546 can replacepreviously discussed assemblies of flexible end seals (e.g. 108, 110)and optional retainers (112, 114). According to some embodiments, theend seals 508, 510 can attach to the substantially cylindrical hollowbody 506 by a snap-fit connection by which the end seals elasticallydeform to firmly attach to the upper edge 556 and lower edge 558 of thehollow body. In some embodiments, the end caps 540, 542 can bepermanently or semi-permanently connected with the sealing rings 544,546, e.g. by way of adhesive or similar means. The end caps 540, 542 canbe formed of any suitable flexible or semi-flexible plastic, e.g. HDPEor silicone. The end seals 508, 510 are sufficiently flexible to permitthe end seals to receive and retain the structural element 502, and toaccommodate limited motion of the structural element within the hollowbody 506, without unseating from the hollow body. In some embodiments,the end caps 540, 542 can have a rippled or textured shape to decreasethe effective stiffness of the end caps and improve their ability todeform under load. The assembly of the structural element 502, end seals508, 510, and hollow body 506 is preferably watertight or at leastresistant to water intrusion.

In accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure,the flexible prosthetic cover 504 can include a removable panel 562, asshown in FIG. 10 . FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view showing theflexible prosthetic cover 504 in a disassembled state, with particularattention to the assembly of the substantially cylindrical hollow body506 from a first, main body 560 and removable panel 562 that can connectwith and be removed from the main body in a lateral direction withrespect to the main body. The main body 560 includes two receiving edges564 that can receive insertion edges 566 of the removable panel 562. Insome specific embodiments, each receiving edge 564 is an opening ortrack into which the matching insertion edge 566 can be placed in a snapfit. A first arc 570 that defines the receiving edges 564 of the mainbody 560 is approximately equal in size to a second arc 572 that definesthe insertion edges 566, though in some embodiments the second art 572may be slightly longer to account for overlap. According to variousembodiments, the main body 560 can connect with the removable panel 562by way of a lap joint or other suitable connective feature, or may beconnected by way of adhesive, by connectors such as clips, screws,bolts, or the like, or any other suitable connector. The insertion edge566 can further include a gasket element 568 that, when the insertionedge 566 is connected with the receiving edge 564, seals main body 560and removable panel 562 together. The main body 560 and removable panel562 can preferably connect to form a watertight seal, and can beassembled with the end seals 508, 510 to form a watertight assembly whenconnected with the structural member 502. In some embodiments, the endseals 508, 510 can provide additional support for maintaining theconnection between the main body 560 and removable panel 562.

According to some embodiments, the prosthesis cover is rotationallysymmetrical, and therefore has a consistent appearance from every angle.The shape of the cover (and particularly the hollow body) canapproximate the ankle and shin shape and contour to provide a naturalprofile when the ankle is exposed, in contrast to the typical sharpangles and componentry visible in contemporary prostheses. In addition,the hollow body (106, 206, 306) can be available in multiple profiles tochoose from depending on the patient's preference and size. Similarly,the hollow body of the cover can be formed in a variety of styles andcolors, including vibrant translucent colors that amputees may choosefrom to either complement their prostheses or add a colorful componentthat disguises typically exposed componentry.

The prosthetic covers described herein are extremely durable. In someembodiments, the hollow body can be formed of a high-strength polymersuch as TRITAN plastic (Eastman, Fla., USA) that resists puncturing,warp, cracking, or denting. In some embodiments, the hollow body can beformed of UV resistant material that is highly resilient against fadingor deterioration in direct sunlight.

The flexible fit provided by the end seals (e.g. end seals 108, 110)cause the prosthetic cover to be silent in use, so there is no unwantednoise. Primarily, the end seals connect the hollow body of theprosthetic cover to the underlying componentry. In one embodiment, theend seals are made using medical grade, highly durable silicone rubberthat provides a seal against elemental intrusion (e.g., rain dirt andmud) while also dampening vibration. The seals can securely attach theprosthesis cover to the prosthesis without additional straps, buckles,glue, or magnets.

The simplicity and lightweight design of the prosthetic covers describedherein promote durability. For example, in at least one embodiment, aprosthetic cover including a one piece, substantially tubular hollowbody two end or transition seals weighs between 125-145 grams (about 4.5and 5 ounces, or about ⅕ the weight of 3-D printed covers available).

Importantly, the prosthetic covers as described herein protect theamputee from injury. Many amputees who wear prostheses are dysvascularand/or diabetic and are therefore at high risk for abrasion or punctureinjuries to the sound limb. By containing or otherwise extending beyondthe extend of the sharp edges, nuts and bolts in the underlyingstructural elements of the prosthesis, an installed prosthetic cover asdescribed can prevent unwanted contact between such components and theopposite limb of a wearer.

Prosthetic covers as described herein can also be installed with a widevariety of commercially available prosthetics, including but not limitedto: high motion feet systems, shock absorbers, torsion units, and vacuumsystems. In addition, modifications can be made for accommodating vacuumtubes (i.e. for vacuum-type prostheses) through the end seals and/orthrough the hollow body. This flexibility of use is due in part to thedynamics of the transition or end seals at each end of the prostheticcovers. The end seals connect the prosthetic cover with the underlyingcomponentry while also providing shock absorption and torsion tolerancewithin the prosthetic system, so that the prosthetic cover will notdampen or impede motion of the prosthetic components in any way.

Installation of a prosthetic cover as described herein can be performedby adapting the end seals to accommodate the diameter of the structuralelement to which the cover is to be installed, and then simply slidingthe assembled cover over the element. Adjustments to the prosthesis canbe readily made by simply sliding the prosthetic cover aside to accessunderlying adjustment screws for necessary alignment changes. Theprosthetic covers can be applied universally to almost any type ofprosthesis, including both AK's (above knees) and BK's (below knees).The prosthetic covers are suitable for K1-K4 patients, and can be easilycustomized, e.g. by painting, water dipping or vinyl wrapping withgraphics.

In one example of an installation procedure, a prosthetic cover asdescribed above can be installed in five steps. First, the distancebetween the socket and the foot shell is measured (i.e. the area ofexposed underlying endoskeletal componentry to be covered). Let Xrepresent this distance. A small distance, e.g. about 15 mm, issubtracted from this distance to allow for movement of the cover itself.The hollow body can then be reduced from an initial length to thisreduced length, e.g. by way of a grinder or comparable tool. Next, theexposed edges of the hollow body should be buffed to remove any sharpedges or burring, and the end seals attached.

The prosthesis should also be prepared for installation by at leastpartial disassembly, e.g., by removing any large components from theends of the underlying endoskeletal componentry or structural elements.Once the end seals are attached, the assembly can be slid onto thestructural element of the prosthesis. Alcohol can be used as a temporarylubricant for attaching the assembly and prosthesis. The seal and hollowbody should be moved as far along the structural element as possible toensure that inner silicone opening is lying flat on component to ensurea seal. Once in place, the retention elements can be attached to the endseals to firmly connect the end seals with the hollow body of theprosthetic cover. down over components pull outer silicone seal overoutside of cover. Finally, any detached portions of the prosthesis(e.g., the socket, foot, etc.) can be reinstalled at the ends of thestructural element.

When installed, the prosthetic cover should be able to freely move inrotation and vertically, or “float” on the underlying componentry,without interference with any moving parts while the patient is walkingor moving. In special circumstances, access may be required to theportion of the structural elements covered by the prosthetic cover inorder to adjust or reattach elements of the prosthesis. In such cases,the prosthetic cover can be modified by simply drilling a hole into thehollow body for access, and subsequently using a plug to seal off holeonce complete. In such cases, it is typically necessary to only drillone hole, as the prosthetic cover can be rotated to access underlyingscrews.

Other variations are within the spirit of the present invention. Thus,while the invention is susceptible to various modifications andalternative constructions, certain illustrated embodiments thereof areshown in the drawings and have been described above in detail. It shouldbe understood, however, that there is no intention to limit theinvention to the specific form or forms disclosed, but on the contrary,the intention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions,and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention, asdefined in the appended claims.

The use of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and similar referents in thecontext of describing the invention (especially in the context of thefollowing claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and theplural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted bycontext. The terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “containing”are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including, butnot limited to,”) unless otherwise noted. The term “connected” is to beconstrued as partly or wholly contained within, attached to, or joinedtogether, even if there is something intervening. Recitation of rangesof values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method ofreferring individually to each separate value falling within the range,unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value isincorporated into the specification as if it were individually recitedherein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitableorder unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearlycontradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplarylanguage (e.g., “such as”) provided herein, is intended merely to betterilluminate embodiments of the invention and does not pose a limitationon the scope of the invention unless otherwise claimed. No language inthe specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimedelement as essential to the practice of the invention.

Preferred embodiments of this invention are described herein, includingthe best mode known to the inventors for carrying out the invention.Variations of those preferred embodiments may become apparent to thoseof ordinary skill in the art upon reading the foregoing description. Theinventors expect skilled artisans to employ such variations asappropriate, and the inventors intend for the invention to be practicedotherwise than as specifically described herein. Accordingly, thisinvention includes all modifications and equivalents of the subjectmatter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicablelaw. Moreover, any combination of the above-described elements in allpossible variations thereof is encompassed by the invention unlessotherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.By way of some non-limiting examples, the specific shapes described forthe various substantially cylindrical hollow bodies of the prostheticcovers disclosed herein (e.g., straight cylinders, hourglass or partialhourglass shapes, bulbous shapes, multi-part hollow bodies, or shapedsurfaces) may be combined with any herein described embodiments of endseals, secondary features (e.g., pocket door 436, FIG. 8 ), and/orattachments (e.g. prosthetic socket 320).

All references, including publications, patent applications, andpatents, cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference to the sameextent as if each reference were individually and specifically indicatedto be incorporated by reference and were set forth in its entiretyherein.

In the following, further examples are described to facilitateunderstanding of the disclosure:

Example A. A prosthetic cover for a prosthetic support element, theprosthetic cover comprising: a hollow body with a first end and a secondend, the hollow body sized to fit around a support element of aprosthesis; a first flexible end seal configured to attach with thehollow body at the first end, and further comprising a first flexibleopening therethrough that is sized to receive the prosthetic supportelement; and a second flexible end seal configured to attach with thehollow body at the second end and further comprising a second flexibleopening therethrough that is sized to receive the prosthetic supportelement, wherein each of the first and second flexible end seals isconfigured to connect the prosthetic cover with the prosthetic supportelement by deforming about the prosthetic support element when theprosthetic cover is installed around the prosthetic support element.

Example B: The prosthetic cover of Example A, wherein each one of thefirst flexible end seal and second flexible end seal forms a respectivefluid-tight connection between the hollow body and the support elementwhen the prosthetic cover is installed around the support element.

Example C. The prosthetic cover of any of the preceding examples,wherein the hollow body comprises a polymer shell having at least one ofa substantially cylindrical shape, hourglass shape, or bulbous shape.

Example D. The prosthetic cover of any of the preceding examples,wherein the hollow body comprises a ribbed or wavy shape that isoperable to allow the hollow body to deform longitudinally.

Example E. The prosthetic cover of any of the preceding examples,wherein the hollow body comprises a main body and a removable panel thatis removably connected with the main body in a lateral direction withrespect to the main body.

Example F. The prosthetic cover of any of Examples A-D, wherein thehollow body comprises an upper body portion and a lower body portionconnected with the upper body portion by a sliding fit configured toallow the hollow body to vary in length.

Example G. The prosthetic cover of any of the preceding examples,further comprising a pocket enclosure defined in an external surface ofthe hollow body and an external closure configured to enclose the pocketenclosure that can be opened and closed by a user.

Example H. The prosthetic cover of any of the preceding examples,wherein each one of the first flexible end seal and second flexible endseal comprises a flexible silicone.

Example I. The prosthetic cover of any of the preceding examples,further comprising: a first locking band encircling the first flexibleend seal and positioned to secure the first flexible end seal to thehollow body; and a second locking band encircling the second flexibleend seal and positioned to secure the second flexible end seal to thehollow body.

Example J. The prosthetic cover of any of Examples A-H, wherein: thefirst flexible end seal comprises a substantially ring-shaped firstflexible gasket element connected with the first end of the hollow body,and a first end cap connected to the first flexible gasket element andconfigured to press the first flexible gasket element onto the first endof the hollow body; and the second flexible end seal comprises asubstantially ring-shaped second flexible gasket element connected withthe second end of the hollow body, and a second end cap connected to thesecond flexible gasket element and configured to press the secondflexible gasket element onto the second end of the hollow body.

Example K. The prosthetic cover of any of the preceding examples,wherein the prosthetic cover is rotationally symmetrical.

Example L. The prosthetic cover of any of the preceding examples,wherein the hollow body comprises a UV-resistant material.

Example M. The prosthetic cover of any of the preceding examples,wherein the first flexible end seal and the second flexible end sealcomprise a vibration dampening material.

Example N. The prosthetic cover of any of the preceding examples,wherein: the first flexible end seal and the second flexible end sealare connected with the hollow body by a watertight seal; and the firstflexible end seal and the second flexible end seal are configured toform a watertight seal with the prosthetic support element when theprosthetic cover is installed around the prosthetic support element.

Example O. The prosthetic cover of any of the preceding examples,wherein the first flexible end seal and the second flexible end seal areremovably connected with the hollow body.

Example P. The prosthetic cover of any of the preceding examples,wherein the hollow body comprises a profile approximating a naturalcontour of an ankle and shin.

Example Q. A prosthesis, comprising: a prosthetic support element; andthe prosthetic cover of any of examples A-P, wherein the prostheticcover is connected with the prosthetic support element by passing theprosthetic support element through the hollow body of the prostheticcover and through each one of the first flexible end seal and secondflexible end seal such that the first flexible end seal and secondflexible end seal support the prosthetic cover with respect to theprosthetic support element.

Example R. The prosthesis of example Q, wherein the prosthetic supportelement comprises an endoskeletal prosthetic support pylon.

Example S. The prosthesis of example Q or example R, further comprisinga socket connected with the prosthetic support element and configured toreceive an extremity of a user.

Example T. A method of installing a prosthetic cover with a prostheticsupport element, the method comprising: passing the prosthetic supportelement through the prosthetic cover of any of examples A-P; connectingthe first flexible end seal of the prosthetic cover with the prostheticsupport element by deforming the first end cap around the prostheticsupport element; connecting the first flexible end seal with the firstend of the hollow body; connecting the second flexible end seal of theprosthetic cover with the prosthetic support element by deforming thesecond end cap around the prosthetic support element; and connecting thesecond flexible end seal with the second end of the hollow body suchthat the hollow body of the prosthetic cover is supported by the firstand second flexible end seals.

Different arrangements of the components depicted in the drawings ordescribed above, as well as components and steps not shown or describedare possible. Similarly, some features and sub-combinations are usefuland may be employed without reference to other features andsub-combinations. Embodiments of the invention have been described forillustrative and not restrictive purposes, and alternative embodimentswill become apparent to readers of this patent. Accordingly, the presentinvention is not limited to the embodiments described above or depictedin the drawings, and various embodiments and modifications may be madewithout departing from the scope of the claims below.

1. A prosthetic cover for a prosthetic support element, the prostheticcover comprising: a hollow body with a first end and a second end,wherein the hollow body is sized to fit around a support element of aprosthesis; a first flexible end seal comprising a first seal annularinner perimeter portion, a first seal annular outer perimeter portionthat is radially offset from and surrounds the first seal annular innerperimeter portion, and a first seal annular middle portion that connectsthe first seal annular inner perimeter portion and the first sealannular outer perimeter portion, wherein the first seal annular innerperimeter portion defines a first flexible opening therethrough that issized to receive the prosthetic support element, wherein the first sealannular outer perimeter portion is configured for attachment to thehollow body at the first end, wherein the first seal annular middleportion has a cross-sectional shape configured to accommodate tilting ofthe hollow body relative to the prosthetic support element; and a secondflexible end seal comprising a second seal annular inner perimeterportion, a second seal annular outer perimeter portion that is radiallyoffset from and surrounds the second seal annular inner perimeterportion, and a second seal annular middle portion that connects thesecond seal annular inner perimeter portion and the second seal annularouter perimeter portion, wherein the second seal annular inner perimeterportion defines a second flexible opening therethrough that is sized toreceive the prosthetic support element, wherein the second seal annularouter perimeter portion is configured for attachment to the hollow bodyat the second end, wherein the second seal annular middle portion has across-sectional shape configured to accommodate tilting of the hollowbody relative to the prosthetic support element.
 2. The prosthetic coverof claim 1, further comprising: a first seal inner clamp configured tosecure the first seal annular inner perimeter portion to the prostheticsupport element; and a second seal inner clamp configured to secure thesecond seal annular inner perimeter portion to the prosthetic supportelement.
 3. The prosthetic cover of claim 2, wherein at least one of thefirst seal inner clamp or the second seal inner clamp is configured as atube clamp.
 4. The prosthetic cover of claim 2, wherein at least one ofthe first seal inner clamp or the second seal inner clamp is configuredas a locking collar.
 5. The prosthetic cover of claim 2, wherein: thefirst seal annular inner perimeter portion comprises a first seal innertubular flange configured to be clamped to the prosthetic supportelement by the first seal inner clamp; and the second seal annular innerperimeter portion comprises a second seal inner tubular flangeconfigured to be clamped to the prosthetic support element by the secondseal inner clamp.
 6. The prosthetic cover of claim 5, furthercomprising: a first seal outer retainer configured to secure the firstseal annular outer perimeter portion to the prosthetic support element;and a second seal outer retainer configured to secure the second sealannular outer perimeter portion to the prosthetic support element. 7.The prosthetic cover of claim 6, wherein at least one of the first sealouter retainer or the second seal outer retainer is configured as alocking band.
 8. The prosthetic cover of claim 6, wherein: the firstseal annular outer perimeter portion comprises a first seal outertubular flange configured to be secured to the prosthetic supportelement by the first seal outer retainer; and the second seal annularinner perimeter portion comprises a second seal outer tubular flangeconfigured to be clamped to the prosthetic support element by the secondseal outer retainer.
 9. The prosthetic cover of claim 8, wherein each ofthe first seal inner tubular flange and the first seal outer tubularflange extend from the first seal annular middle portion towards thesecond flexible end seal.
 10. The prosthetic cover of claim 9, whereineach of the second seal inner tubular flange and the second seal outertubular flange extend from the second seal annular middle portiontowards the first flexible end seal.
 11. The prosthetic cover of claim1, further comprising: a first seal outer retainer configured to securethe first seal annular outer perimeter portion to the prosthetic supportelement; and a second seal outer retainer configured to secure thesecond seal annular outer perimeter portion to the prosthetic supportelement.
 12. The prosthetic cover of claim 6, wherein at least one ofthe first seal outer retainer or the second seal outer retainer isconfigured as a locking band.
 13. The prosthetic cover of claim 6,wherein: the first seal annular outer perimeter portion comprises afirst seal outer tubular flange configured to be secured to theprosthetic support element by the first seal outer retainer; and thesecond seal annular inner perimeter portion comprises a second sealouter tubular flange configured to be clamped to the prosthetic supportelement by the second seal outer retainer.
 14. The prosthetic cover ofclaim 1, wherein the cross-sectional shape of at least one of the firstseal annular middle portion or the second seal annular middle portionhas a curved or wavy shape.
 15. The prosthetic cover of claim 1, whereinthe first flexible end seal and the second flexible end seal areconfigured to form a liquid-tight seal with the hollow body.
 16. Theprosthetic cover of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first sealannular outer perimeter portion or the second seal annular outerperimeter portion comprise a snap-fit connection portion configured toelastically deform to attach with the hollow body.
 17. A prosthesiscomprising: a prosthetic support element; a hollow body with a first endand a second end, wherein the hollow body is sized to fit around asupport element of a prosthesis; a first flexible end seal comprising afirst seal annular inner perimeter portion, a first seal annular outerperimeter portion that is radially offset from and surrounds the firstseal annular inner perimeter portion, and a first seal annular middleportion that connects the first seal annular inner perimeter portion andthe first seal annular outer perimeter portion, wherein the first sealannular inner perimeter portion defines a first flexible openingtherethrough that is sized to receive the prosthetic support element,wherein the first seal annular outer perimeter portion is configured forattachment to the hollow body at the first end, wherein the first sealannular middle portion has a cross-sectional shape configured toaccommodate tilting of the hollow body relative to the prostheticsupport element; and a second flexible end seal comprising a second sealannular inner perimeter portion, a second seal annular outer perimeterportion that is radially offset from and surrounds the second sealannular inner perimeter portion, and a second seal annular middleportion that connects the second seal annular inner perimeter portionand the second seal annular outer perimeter portion, wherein the secondseal annular inner perimeter portion defines a second flexible openingtherethrough that is sized to receive the prosthetic support element,wherein the second seal annular outer perimeter portion is configuredfor attachment to the hollow body at the second end, wherein the secondseal annular middle portion has a cross-sectional shape configured toaccommodate tilting of the hollow body relative to the prostheticsupport element.
 18. The prosthesis of claim 17, wherein the prostheticsupport element comprises an endoskeletal prosthetic support pylon. 19.The prosthesis of claim 17, wherein: the prosthetic support elementcomprises a socket connected with the prosthetic support element; andthe socket is configured to receive an extremity of a user.
 20. A methodof covering a prosthetic support element, the method comprising:receiving a hollow body with a first end and a second end, wherein thehollow body is sized to fit around a support element of a prosthesis;receiving a first flexible end seal comprising a first seal annularinner perimeter portion, a first seal annular outer perimeter portionthat is radially offset from and surrounds the first seal annular innerperimeter portion, and a first seal annular middle portion that connectsthe first seal annular inner perimeter portion and the first sealannular outer perimeter portion, wherein the first seal annular innerperimeter portion defines a first flexible opening therethrough that issized to receive the prosthetic support element, wherein the first sealannular outer perimeter portion is configured for attachment to thehollow body at the first end; receiving a second flexible end sealcomprising a second seal annular inner perimeter portion, a second sealannular outer perimeter portion that is radially offset from andsurrounds the second seal annular inner perimeter portion, and a secondseal annular middle portion that connects the second seal annular innerperimeter portion and the second seal annular outer perimeter portion,wherein the second seal annular inner perimeter portion defines a secondflexible opening therethrough that is sized to receive the prostheticsupport element, wherein the second seal annular outer perimeter portionis configured for attachment to the hollow body at the second end;attaching the first flexible end seal to the prosthetic support elementby attaching the first seal annular inner perimeter portion to a firstend of the prosthetic support element; attaching the first flexible endseal to the hollow body by attaching the first seal annular outerperimeter portion to the first end of the hollow body; attaching thesecond flexible end seal to the prosthetic support element by attachingthe second seal annular inner perimeter portion to a second end of theprosthetic support element; and attaching the second flexible end sealto the hollow body by attaching the second seal annular outer perimeterportion to the second end of the hollow body.